TULALIP, Wash. – The U.S. Commerce Department’s Economic Development Administration has awarded a $40,739 grant to the Tulalip Tribes to continue a comprehensive economic development planning program.

“The Economic Development Administration is pleased to partner with the Tulalip Tribes to improve the regional economic climate,” said Sandra R. Walters, EDA chief financial officer/chief administrative officer.

“This EDA grant will continue an economic development planning program that will work to boost business development and job growth in the region.”

EDA grants are designed to “lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy,” the agency said in a release.

Tulalip has aggressively pursued economic development, particularly in its Quil Ceda Village, which fronts Interstate 5. The village has the largest retail outlet mall in the state, the largest hotel between Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia, one of the largest spas in the Pacific Northwest, as well as the Tulalip Amphitheater, Tulalip Resort Casino and other commercial and retail.

Richard Walker is a correspondent reporting from San Juan Island, Wash. Contact him at rmwalker@rockisland.com.